9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling east to Sakarya, Ankara, Eskişehir, and Bursa

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Istanbul, including a mosque, an archeological site, and a palace. Start your adventure at Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Basilica Cistern located in Istanbul for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Hagia Sophia. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Topkapı Palace. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this palace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Visit Olive City Shopping Center in Istanbul for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Olive City Shopping Center has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Istanbul's best restaurants.

Begin your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Eyüpsultan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sakarya. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Grand Bazaar, a timeless local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Süleymaniye Mosque. This spectacular mosque is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Istanbul's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Spice Bazaar. This photogenic market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Galata Bridge is also worth visiting, along with Eyüp Sultan Mosque. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sakarya. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sakarya. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hakiki Rumeli Koftecisi, an iconic dining spot in Sakarya. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kebapcibey, a popular restaurant in Sakarya. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for an exciting day in Ankara. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a museum, and a park. Begin your adventure at Ankara Castle. This is an interesting castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a well-known museum in Ankara.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kuğulu Park, another of the town’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Seğmenler Parkı, an awe-inspiring place of interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Ankara.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Ankara. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at MARTI RESTAURANT, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Golden Pavilion Museum, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Afganistan Sofrası, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at On An On Rock Cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to London Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Altındağ and Ankara, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Eskişehir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Ankara includes a park, a monument, a museum, a mosque and much more! Independence Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Anıtkabir, a world-famous monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, a history-steeped museum, also available for your discovery today.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Eskişehir, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Eskişehir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oda Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Eskişehir tonight.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Odunpazarı, Eskişehir, and Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This well-known park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dede Korkut Park, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, one of the most captivating places to see in Eskişehir. This historical landmark is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Bursa Grand Mosque. Wander around and soak in the breathtaking atmosphere this mosque offers. Then, head to Koza Han, a top-rated market that adds another dimension to your day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bursa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Bursa, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Abidin Usta. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at My Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cemil. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bursa. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a mosque, a park, a palace, a museum, an observation deck and much more! Begin your adventure at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This is a locally renowned mosque you should not miss. Another must-see is Yıldız Park, a well-known park in Bursa.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dolmabahçe Palace. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Miniatürk, another of the town’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Galata Tower, a romantic place of interest in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Istanbul's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pierre Loti Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!